With very little debate, the Utah Senate gave final approval to a bill banning abortions when the sole reason is the baby would be born with Down syndrome. The measure now heads to Gov. Gary Herbert’s desk.
The Senate on a final vote of 20-6 approved HB166, sponsored by Rep. Karianne Lisonbee, R-Clearfield. All six Democrats voted against the measure.
Sen. President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said the subject is a personal one for many legislators.
“It’s a sensitive issue for many of us,” he said. “The blessing of life and the blessing of Down syndrome kids and the way they look at things makes this a hard question to answer.”
This is the second straight year Lisonbee attempted to pass this legislation. Last year HB205 passed a Senate committee but was sent back to the Senate Rules committee where it died before the end of the session.
